05/26/2026
It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we announce the passing of Dr. James William Elliott, 73, of Ashland, Kentucky, on May 26, 2026, after a long, heroic, yet heartbreaking battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
James was born on June 5, 1953, in Dayton, Ohio, to William and Harriet Elliott. He was one of four brothers. James spent his youth in Venice, Florida, where he graduated from Venice High School. He later attended and graduated from the Southern College of Optometry. Over the course of a 40-year career, James dedicated himself to caring for his patients and touched countless lives through his work in optometry.
Dr. Elliott, “Doc,” James, Jim, and Papaw Jim — a man known by many names and loved by so many — lived his life helping others. He enjoyed playing golf with friends, and many Sundays were spent on his boat with a fishing pole in hand. Jim absolutely loved fishing, even when his wife continuously caught the bigger fish. He was also a devoted Kentucky Wildcats fan. Above all, he was a caring and devoted husband, grandfather, friend, and brother. Jim was a selfless and generous man whose kindness will never be forgotten.
Dr. James Elliott is survived by his loving wife, Tammy Elliott; his brothers, Charles Elliott, Larry Elliott and his wife Pam, and Stephen Elliott; his two stepdaughters, Stacey Gutheridge and Brandy DeCourcey; and his grandchildren, Robert DeCourcey, Ethan DeCourcey, Austin Gutheridge, Madison DeCourcey, and Megan Gutheridge. He will be deeply missed every day.
In keeping with James’s wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held. The family asks that you honor Jim’s memory by lending a helping hand to someone in need. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer’s research in his honor. Condolences may be left at www.mfhfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Miller Funeral Home in Ashland, Kentucky.
